Legislation would streamline problem gambling hotline
State Rep. Jason Ortitay, R-South Fayette Township, recently introduced legislation to streamline the state’s problem gambling assistance programs. Specifically, House Bill 1887 would require the Department of Health establish and maintain one toll-free problem gambling assistance number, which all in-state casinos must make available to patrons.
Current law does require the Department of Health maintain a toll-free gambling assistance number. The law also requires that casinos to make gambling assistance numbers available to patrons. However, during a recent hearing before the House Gaming Oversight Committee, of which Ortitay is a member, it was uncovered that that there are several toll-free gambling assistance numbers being used in the Commonwealth.